JCAHPO has recently added Certified Ophthalmic Scribe to their list of certification exams. What makes this certification unique is that the certfication exam has no pre-requisites. Anyone can sign up for the exam, and once passed, you are a Certified Ophthalmic Scribe (OSC). Passing the exam is not a piece of cake, but it is definitely do-able for someone who wants to take the time and modest expense of studying a prep-course.

Why would you want to be a scribe? This is a relatively open door into the otherwise relatively closed world of ophthalmic technology. It can be a stepping stone to becoming a certified ophthalmic assistant, technician, or technologist. You can become a technician by attending an accredited program, but programs are scarce and expensive in terms of cost and time. You can go the on-the-job-training route, but employers generally do not hire the inexperienced. Thus the difficulty.

Job description of an ophthalmic scribe:

The role of the scribe is to assist the physician with documentation of the patient's medical record.

The scribe accompanies the physician into the exam room to transcribe the history and examination as given by the patient and the physician.

The scribe, under the direction of the physician, transcribes the impression and plan, results of tests, prescriptions, and orders.

The scribe documents any procedures that may be performed by the physician or ophthalmic medical personnel.

The scribe transcribes any consultations or discussions with family members.

The scribe does not usually directly assist with patient care, but may do so as directed by the physician.

If you can make your doctor, clinic, or practice more income, then you are (likely) going to make more income. That is the salary bottom line. How can you personally make this happen? By increasing the efficiency of your work environment.

How to increase efficiency

In the 1947 Christmas movie “Miracle on 34th” Street” one of the subplots is the competition between two New York city department store giants, Macy’s and Gimbel’s.

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